Written question asked by Lord Campbell of Pittenweem (Liberal Democrat) on Friday, 29 October 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 4 November 2004. It was answered by Jack Straw (Labour) on Thursday, 4 November 2004 on behalf of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Foreign and Commonwealth Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, if he will make a statement on the withdrawal of Mr Craig Murray, former ambassador to Uzbekistan.

Answer: Sir Menzies Campbell: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on the withdrawal of Mr. Craig Murray, former Ambassador to Uzbekistan. [195508] Mr. Straw: Operational staffing decisions are taken by senior Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) officials, in accordance with long-standing convention. My officials decided to withdraw Mr. Murray from his post as he was no longer able to perform effectively the full range of duties required in the conduct of our relations with Uzbekistan. Mr. Murray has since been suspended on full pay pending investigation into his conduct in relation to a number of statements which have been made about the FCO.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 195508; 426 c409W
Session: 2003-04
Subjects: Disciplinary proceedings Diplomatic service Uzbekistan Murray, Craig
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk